As a U.S. citizen living abroad who wants to sponsor your foreign relative for a green card, the process might seem overwhelming but a key requirement is proving your U.S. domicile, which means showing that your main home is in America and this overseas US citizen article will guide you through the steps.
Understanding the Importance for Overseas US Citizens
To sponsor someone using Form I-864, you need to meet several criteria like your U.S. domicile, which means that the United States is your primary home, and you intend to keep it that way for the foreseeable future.
Proving it for Form I-864
Employment Abroad by U.S.-Related Entities
One way to prove this while living overseas is through employment by certain U.S.-related entities, such as:
- The Government: This includes working at embassies, consulates, or for the military and other government agencies.
- Research Institutions: Employment at specific institutions listed in federal regulations can support your claim.
- Public International Organizations: Working for organizations in which the U.S. participates by law can qualify you as having a U.S. domicile.
- American-Owned Companies in Foreign Trade: Employment with U.S.-owned companies involved in international trade can help establish your domicile.
- Religious Denominations or Interdenominational Organizations: Serving as a priest, minister, or missionary for a U.S.-affiliated religious organization can support your claim.
Employment can include full-time positions, contracts, or work under grants. The strength of your claim will depend on your specific circumstances, so consulting an immigration attorney is a good idea to assess your eligibility.
Living Abroad Temporarily as a U.S. Citizen
Another way to establish a U.S. domicile is by temporarily living abroad while maintaining ties to the United States. Many U.S. citizens live abroad for specific projects with the intent to return. To prove your domicile, emphasize:
- The Duration of Your Project: Show that your stay abroad is temporary by highlighting the term of your project.
- Maintaining Ties to the U.S.: Provide evidence of ongoing connections to the U.S., such as:
- Receipts for property storage facilities in the U.S.
- Proof of renewed licenses, subscriptions, or contributions to U.S. organizations
- Continued participation in U.S. elections
- Ownership or leasing of property in the U.S.
- Visits to family and friends in the U.S.
- Continued receipt of mail in the U.S.
- Renewal of a U.S. driver’s license
- Statements from U.S. banks, mortgages, or other accounts
Include any relevant documentation of your temporary immigration status in the foreign country, as well as correspondence that supports the temporary nature of your stay.
Establishing a U.S. Domicile Alongside the Intending Immigrant
If you plan to move back to the U.S. in the future, you can still be eligible to file Form I-864. Show evidence of concrete steps you’ve taken to relocate permanently to the U.S., such as:
- Correspondence with U.S. landlords
- Resignation from your foreign job and applications to jobs in the U.S.
- Initiating a business in the U.S.
- Closing accounts with foreign institutions and opening accounts with U.S. institutions
Establishing a U.S. domicile as a U.S. citizen living abroad is crucial when sponsoring a foreign relative for a green card using Form I-864. Whether through employment with U.S.-related entities, temporary residence abroad, or future domicile plans, understanding the requirements and providing strong evidence is key to a successful sponsorship process.
For personalized guidance, consult an immigration attorney who can help you navigate the complexities of overseas US citizen requirements. By following overseas US citizen guidelines and documenting your case thoroughly, you can confidently pursue your goal of reuniting with your loved ones in the United States.
